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In pictures: 5 things to know about… Luxury hotel openings in the UAE
When it comes to hotels in the Gulf, there’s always room for more – as this collection of upscale properties proves
Gevora Hotel: This 356-metre high hotel rising above Sheikh Zayed Road will be the highest in the world when it opens in Q1 2018 – overtaking the JW Marriott Marquis in Business Bay. Its 528 rooms, restaurants, health club and two swimming pools will occupy space that stretches all the way to the tower’s 75th floor.
ME By Melia: The sculpted form of The Opus, the late Zaha Hadid’s sole design to be built in Dubai, will open within the next month and boutique hotel chain Melia will be one of the tenants. The 98-room residence is set to welcome its first guests in October this year, where they’ll be able to enjoy a venue designed to project the feeling of a flower.
W Dubai, The Palm: The W instantly became one of the buzziest hotels in Dubai when it opened in autumn 2016 and now the Marriott-owned brand is bringing its cool New York vibe to The Palm. Set to open in March 2018, its multi-tiered boomerang shape will be located in the Western Crescent, just down from the Kempinski.
The Abu Dhabi Edition: Ian Schrager makes his regional debut with this 198-room property located on the Al Bateen waterfront on the south-westerly corner of the Abu Dhabi peninsula. Its lattice-work construction has the feel of the Beijing “bird’s nest” stadium, while the bridge also echoes the nearby Yas Viceroy.
Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Beach: Another luxury hotel brand that is finally making its way to the UAE, Mandarin Oriental is opening up a palatial property in Jumeirah – right opposite Mercato Mall, in fact. It will also have a pier with a luxury restaurant – Pierchic mark two, essentially – and a selection of over-the-water villas.
